Mary Francis Botnovcan, 86, went home to heaven, passing peacefully with her loving family by her side on March 29, 2025.
Preceeded in death by her brother Steve Botnovcan. Survived by beloved sister Marjorie Woldt (Walter H.); proud aunt to Walter S. Woldt, Jennifer Woldt, Katherine (Tom) Manetas, Gary Botnovcan, Sharon (Marc Howard) Botnovcan, Pamela (George) Behmke; dear great aunt of Hallie Botnovcan, Alex Howard, Madeline Howard, Nicole Howard, Heather Behmke, Jacqueline Woldt, Angela Woldt, Markus Kivisikk, Annika Kivisikk, Nikolaos Manetas, Dean Manetas, and Violetta Manetas.
Mary graduated from Horace Mann High School (1956), Valparaiso University (BA Education), Roosevelt University in Chicago, (MA Education), and served as a passionate Elementary and Middle School Educator for over 35 years. Mary was a devout member of the Catholic Church whose faith guided her through every chapter of her life. She was an active member of St. Timothy’s Catholic Church where she was known for her warm smile and compassionate spirit.
Mary’s greatest love was her family. Mary was a beloved sister, treasured aunt and great aunt. She was the heart and soul of our family, the piece that bound us all together. Mary spread boundless joy far beyond our immediate family. Mary was a devoted and cherished friend. Her wide circle of friends cared deeply for her and served as an invaluable support network. Year over year Mary gave generously to 30+ charities. Mary’s legacy of love, faith, and philanthropy were gifts to all.
The family will receive friends for visitation at Beyers Funeral Home, 134 North Highway 441, Lady Lake, Florida, on April 3, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. A memorial mass will be held in honor of Mary’s life on April 4, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. at St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 1351 Page Place, Lady Lake, Florida. In lieu of flowers, Mary’s family requests that contributions be made in her memory to St. Timothy’s Catholic Church or Autism Speaks.
As we celebrate Mary’s inspiring life, we find solace in the knowledge that she is now at peace in the loving arms of her Savior, reunited with loved ones who have gone before her. May her soul rest in eternal peace and her memory live on in our hearts, always.